By Eni Muça – When technology becomes more than just a profession — a mission to empower others — stories like that of Xheneta Krasniqi emerge. A young Albanian woman from Munich with roots in Pristina, Xheneta is now recognized as one of Germany’s top young engineers for 2025. At an age when many are just beginning to explore their careers, Xheneta is already one of the most promising voices at Microsoft and a leading architect of major transformations through AI and cloud computing.
But her story didn’t start in a high-tech lab — it began in her small bedroom, with an old computer and a big dream. In this sincere and inspiring conversation, Xheneta shares how passion, courage, and a desire to make a difference can open doors to the world. And that technology needs more girls like her.
Tell us a bit about your personal and professional background. How did your passion for technology begin?
Technology has always been my passion — a limitless world where ideas become solutions and possibilities are endless. Since I was a child, I’ve been exploring our old computer, writing my first programs, and quickly became the “tech person” for my family and friends. Whenever there was a problem, the question was often: “Xheneta, can you help?”
These early experiences taught me that technology isn’t just about algorithms — it’s about empowering people. My journey into STEM wasn’t a straightforward decision, but a natural evolution of my problem-solving passion. Today, I live that passion by helping companies transform with innovative tech, AI, and cloud solutions — while also sharing my knowledge to support others on their journey into the tech world.
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced as a young woman in tech, and how have you overcome them?
Technology thrives on diversity — on the ideas, experiences, and voices that come together to shape the future. For me, it’s important to stay curious, seize opportunities, and work with people who bring different perspectives. In such a dynamic and challenging field like technology, confidence and courage are essential to move forward and empower others. This is my way, as a young woman, to create impact and share my passion for innovation.
You’ve recently been honored with a prestigious award. How do you feel about receiving the title “Top Young Women Engineer of Germany 2025”?
This title is a great honor and a responsibility I carry with pride. For me, it represents not just recognition of my achievements, but also an opportunity to inspire and empower others — especially women and girls who dream of a career in tech. Technology is our universal language — it connects, transforms, and empowers. That’s why I see this award as a call to keep improving, stay curious, and create lasting impact. I’m grateful to everyone who has supported me on this journey and look forward to continuing to drive change in this extraordinary industry.
Can you tell us more about the social initiatives you’ve led within and beyond Microsoft?
I share my passion for technology with the belief that knowledge only has value when it’s shared and empowers others. As a Digital Skills trainer at ReDi Digital School of Innovation in Munich, I’ve had the privilege of helping women with migration backgrounds gain essential digital skills.
As a mentor in programs like the SkillHer AI Initiative and Women in Business at my alma mater, LMU, I support young women pursuing careers in STEM, encouraging them to believe in their potential and follow their passions.
Beyond the tech world, I’ve participated in social projects like donating school supplies and books to refugee children’s schools, distributing gifts to children in need, and helping build prosthetic hands for people in Ghana — all ways to live my passion for helping others.
What motivates Xheneta beyond code and algorithms?
Beyond code and algorithms, I’ve turned my passion into a profession — empowering others through technology.
What’s your message to young Albanian girls who dream of entering the world of technology?
Believe in your potential. Don’t be afraid to try, to ask questions, and to keep learning. You are powerful, creative, and capable of shaping the future — and the tech world needs your voice. Be bold and believe that anything is possible!
How do you think we can build bridges between the diaspora and tech talent in Albania and Kosovo?
Building bridges between the diaspora and tech talent in Albania and Kosovo requires ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing. Platforms like this one and the creation of communities where Albanian professionals from the diaspora share their experiences, ideas, and opportunities with young talent back home are important steps forward.
Mentorship programs and training initiatives can build strong connections and encourage innovation. Another key approach is building powerful professional networks that connect talents to create joint growth and development opportunities. Technology is our shared language, and with an open and bold approach, we can build a sustainable and strong ecosystem that supports Albanian innovation everywhere in the world.
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